Quote:
Originally Posted by Rudy
Respectfully I don't see a weekly giving command. Paul told them to lay something aside weekly so that when he came they would have something substantial to give for a need and not have to take up a collection when he came. This collection was for the saints in Jerusalem. Paul already came and took the gift. No need to keep laying something aside for the saints in Jerusalem. Paul came and took it.
The Collection for the Saints
16 Now concerning[ a] the collection for the saints: as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you also are to do. 2 On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come. 3 And when I arrive, I will send those whom you accredit by letter to carry your gift to Jerusalem. 4 If it seems advisable that I should go also, they will accompany me. |
Rudy your are spot on. There is no command for weekly giving as a general practice for the church. Paul was speaking of an offering being collected for a particular need. Ignore those who are mocking you for pointing this out.
The modern church has allot of overhead expense that the early church would not have comprehended. We choose to own our own building, get into debt, strap the people of God with a mortgage and pay a salary to a pastor and staff members. I'm not saying these things are wrong. But they do create stress that contributes to the twisting of scripture to come up with an unbiblical tax or membership dues for the saints. I wish these churches would just be honest and tell people that to be an official member with all the amenities, one must pay
membership dues. Those who don't pay can visit as often as they like, but they will receive no amenities.